Holden Caulfield (The Catcher in the Rye)

Holden Caulfield is the protagonist of J.D. Salinger's novel "The Catcher in the Rye." He is a teenager who struggles with feelings of alienation and disillusionment in post-World War II America. Throughout the novel, Holden expresses a deep yearning to protect the innocence of children while grappling with his own painful experiences and the complexities of adulthood. His critical view of the world, often labeling people as "phony," reflects his internal conflicts and emotional turmoil. Holden's journey explores themes of identity, loss, and the challenges of growing up.